Four cute baby raccoon sitting on a deck at night. Photo Courtesy LAC

COUNTY NEWS RELEASE

Raccoons are a common sight in Los Alamos but this doesn’t mean they are safe or friendly to humans. In fact, raccoons can be quite dangerous if they get too close.

Follow these tips for safety around raccoons:

• Keep Raccoons From Coming Too Close – If a raccoon approaches too closely, make yourself appear larger: stand up, shout, and wave your arms. If it continues to approach, throw or spray water, or even stones, if needed.

• A raccoon that is very aggressive–or too tame, or seems to be disoriented or staggers may be sick or injured. Do not approach the animal yourself, instead contact Animal Control at 505-662-8222 or 877-261-4090 or NM Game & Fish at 505-476-8000 or 888-248-6866.

• Children should be warned against approaching raccoons and told to yell a set phrase if a raccoon approaches too close (such as “Go Away Raccoon!”). This will help alert adults that they need assistance.

To learn more about the raccoon and other wildlife, visit the NM Game & Fish website at www.lacnm.com/NMGF.